A Two-Day Workshop Series for Veterans:
Connection. Purpose. Community.
Military service creates lifelong bonds, shared experiences, and a unique sense of purpose. After service, many veterans find themselves searching for opportunities to reconnect—not only with others, but with themselves.
Operation Freedom is an exclusive Two-Day Workshop Series that brings veterans together through equine-assisted learning, meaningful conversation, creative experiences, and shared meals in a welcoming, supportive environment.
Designed for a small group of just 10 veterans, this workshop series offers the opportunity to slow down, build genuine relationships, gain practical life skills, and experience the powerful lessons horses can teach about communication, trust, leadership, resilience, and confidence.
No horse experience is necessary, and no riding is involved.
Thanks to the generous support of Duke Energy, Operation Freedom is fully funded and offered at no cost to veterans and one adult support person.
Workshop Details:
Workshop Day 1
Saturday, November 21, 2026
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Workshop Day 2
Saturday, December 5, 2026
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Located at Crossroads Ranch
6740 McFarren Rd
Gosport, Indiana 47433
Operation Freedom is intentionally designed as a two-day workshop series, with each workshop building upon the previous one. To receive the full experience, participants commit to attending both workshop days.
Workshops Include:
🐴 Interactive Horse Experience (No riding or horse experience required)
🎨 Creative Reflection Activity
🍽️ Catered Lunch on Both Workshop Days
🤝 Meaningful Connections with Fellow Veterans
Who Can Attend?
✔ Open to all U.S. military veterans, active duty, reserves & national guard members
✔ Limited to 10 veterans to provide a personalized experience
✔ Bring someone along with you! Each veteran is welcome to bring one adult support person to participate alongside them during both workshop days.
A support person may be your: Spouse, Parent, Adult child, Friend, Caregiver, or someone who has been an important part of your journey
Cost:
This workshop is fully funded through the generous support of Duke Energy. There is no cost to attend
Meet Your Workshop Hosts:
Tamra Ranard – Crossroads Ranch
Tamra brings a deep respect for the men and women who have served our country and is honored to support veterans through the mission of Crossroads Ranch. Tamra completed Veteran Trauma Response training through Indiana University, providing her with specialized knowledge to better serve veterans and their families. She believes meaningful relationships, shared experiences, and the unique connection between people and horses can create opportunities for growth, encouragement, and renewed purpose.
Cynthia Sanders – Crossroads Ranch
Cynthia was raised in a family where service was a way of life. Her father proudly served 22 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Master Drill Sergeant, and her mother served in the Army Reserves. Coming from a multi-generational military family representing multiple branches. Cynthia has a lifelong appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve and their families. In addition to her personal military connections, Cynthia completed Veteran Trauma Response training through Indiana University, equipping her with a deeper understanding of the unique experiences and challenges veterans may face.
Commitment & Attendance:
Because this program is fully funded by sponsors, and to ensure that each participant receives the full benefits, attendance at both workshops is required.
This allows us to create a consistent and supportive experience for everyone while ensuring resources are used effectively. Please only sign up if you can commit to both workshop sessions. (This also applies to your friend if you are bringing them).
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the unique insights horses provide and the power of art in a supportive community. Space is limited, so sign up today!
Sponsored by:
Hear what other veterans are saying:
“I can truly say that I felt purpose every time I left.
Bringing my wife as my support person was a huge benefit. Our bond grew stronger, and we learned so much about communicating with one another.
I’m even considering volunteering at the ranch because of the community Cynthia and Tamra have created.”
– Frank M. –
Us. Marine, sgt.
“I must admit that I was fearful to join. I tend to avoid social interaction and would normally never sign up for a group program… but my inner knowing told me to just try it. I am so glad that I did.
The art activities touched a deep place in me that needed healing. Working in a fun, non-judgmental environment helped me process experiences I’d carried for decades.
The horses are a wonderful way to learn to focus on the here and now. They respond to your intention and helped remind me that I create my own reality in every moment.”
– Anne D –
US Veteran
“This program offers a unique opportunity to participate in an environment where creativity and self-expression are encouraged without criticism or judgment.
I consider Operation Freedom to be a mini mental health retreat—it’s positive and uplifting.
I have enjoyed participating in this program very much and hope many other veterans have the opportunity to attend in the future.”
– Kimberly D. –
Indiana army National Guard
Reserve Your Spot!
Enrollment is intentionally limited to 10 veterans to foster meaningful conversations, authentic relationships, and personalized experiences.
Your registration includes:
- Two full workshop days (a $300 value)
- Guided equine-assisted learning activities
- Creative art experience
- Catered lunches
- All workshop materials
Registration is required. Participants should plan to attend both workshop days to receive the full benefit of the workshop series.
FALL 2026 SATURDAY DATES:
November 21
December 5
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🇺🇸 Who can attend?
Operation Freedom is open to all United States military veterans, regardless of branch, years of service, or era served.
🇺🇸 Can I bring someone with me?
Absolutely. Each veteran is encouraged to bring one adult support person to participate in both workshop days.
🇺🇸 Do I need horse experience?
No. Most participants have never worked with horses before.
🇺🇸Will I be riding horses?
No. All equine activities take place on the ground and are facilitated by certified experienced staff.
🇺🇸 Do I have to attend both workshop days?
Yes.
Operation Freedom is intentionally designed as a two-day workshop series. Each workshop builds upon the previous one, allowing participants to deepen the lessons learned, strengthen relationships within the group, and gain the greatest benefit from the experience.
🇺🇸 What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities.
🇺🇸 Is lunch provided?
Yes. A catered lunch and refreshments are provided on both workshop days.
🇺🇸 How much does it cost?
Thanks to the generous support of Duke Energy, Operation Freedom is fully funded and offered at no cost to veterans and one support person.
🇺🇸 What if I register and can no longer attend?
Enrollment is limited to 10 veterans to create a meaningful and personalized experience.
If your plans change, please let us know as soon as possible so another veteran has the opportunity to participate.
🇺🇸 What if I have dietary needs or medical concerns?
We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and medical needs. Please email us your needs at info@crossroads-ranch.com